Home
Healthy Family
Healthy Community
Healthy World
Site Menu
Recipes Meal-o-matic Favorite Foods Blog / Stories
Preschool Adventure Food Adventure Home Edition Classes & Events
Partners About Stay in Touch
My Stuff Log In Shop our Store Donate

pumpkins


The pumpkin is very popular as a fall decoration, but it is also a wonderful food source! Beyond its use as a pie filling, pumpkin is a highly nutritious and delicious vegetable.

Why is it good for my body? Pumpkins are a heart healthy food, due to fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. Pumpkins are also high in vitamin A and iron.
Where does it come from? Pumpkins are members of the cucurbitaceae family, along with other squashes, melons, cucumbers, and gourds. Cultivation dates back nine thousand years to parts of Central and South America. Native American tribes in New England also cultivated pumpkins and other squashes.
What season is it fresh? Pumpkins are harvested in late summer through late fall.
How do I store and handle it? Ideally, pie pumpkins can be stored for 8-12 weeks. Wash all the dirt off and dry completely, then wipe them with a half vinegar-half water solution. They should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place.
What are ways to eat it? Most people think of pumpkin pie as the best use for pumpkin, but it is perfect for making muffins, quickbreads, and Doctor Yum's famous Pumpkin Energy Bites. Pumpkin can be used like other winter squashes in savory dishes, soups, or roasted vegetables.

Found in the Produce section


pumpkins in meal-o-matic

Recipes